>> When and how should I start cleaning by baby's teeth? >> When can my child use toothpaste? >> When should I start flossing my child's teeth? >> Should I use an electric toothbrush on my child's teeth? >> How often should I take my child to the pediatric dentist? >> Why should the baby teeth be filled since they will be lost anyway? >> What is flouride? >> What are dental sealants? >> How safe are dental X-rays? >> Will thumbsucking or pacifier use harm my child's teeth? >> What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events? When and how should I start cleaning my baby's teeth? You should start cleaning your baby's teeth as soon as they come in because harmful plaque begins to form as soon as teeth erupt. A toothbrush will remove the bacteria that can lead to decay. Any soft- bristled toothbrush with a small head, preferably one designed for infants, should be used at least once a day at bedtime. >> back to top When can my child use toothpaste? Flouridated toothpaste can be introduced when a child is 2 - 3 years of age. Prior to that, parents should clean the child's teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush. When toothpaste is used after age 2 - 3, parents should supervise brushing and make sure that child uses no more than a smear on the brush. Children should spit out and not swallow excess toothpaste after brushing. Brush your child's teeth at least twice a day. >> back to top When should I start flossing my child's teeth? Parents should be flossing their child's teeth as soon as any two teeth touch. Cleaning between the teeth is important because it removes plaque where a toothbrush can't reach. >> back to top Should I use an electric toothbrush on my child's teeth? Some children, as well as some adults, seem to do a more effective job of cleaning teeth with the aid of an electric toothbrush. It is often a matter of patient preference. Certainly, if the novelty of the electric toothbrush motivates your child to brush more often, then use it! >> back to top How often should I take my child to the pediatric dentist? Regular visits to the pediatric dentist help encourage a pleasant, confident attidude in the child regarding this necessary, lifelong health practice. A check-up every six months is recommended in order to prevent cavities and other dental problems. >> back to top Why should the baby teeth be filled since they will be lost anyway? Some primary or "baby" teeth serve a child until at least 12 years of age. Neglect of the baby teeth can cause pain, infection of the gums and jaws, impairment of general health and premature loss of teeth, which is a major case of orthodontic problems. Also, cavities tend to form in teeth that are next to other teeth with unfilled cavities. It is unwise to leave active decay on baby teeth as it can, and most likely will cause decay on the permanent teeth. >> back to top What is flouride? Flouride is one of the most effective agents for preventing tooth decay by increasing the strength of the tooth as it forms. The best way for your child to receive flouriide is by drinking water containing the right amount of the mineral. Children who drink water with flouride from birth on average have up to 50% fewer cavities. >> back to top What are dental sealants? A dental sealant is a clear material that is applied to the chewing surfaces where deep fissure/grooves of a back tooth can trap organic debris and cavity causing bacteria. This shuts out food particles that could get caught in the teeth, causing cavities. The application is fast and comfortable and can effectively protect teeth for many years. >> back to top How safe are dental X-rays? When it comes to dental health, it is often difficult to detect dental disease without the aid of X-rays. However, with better X-ray machines and the use of lead aprons, dental X-rays have become very safe and the exposure to radiation is minimal. Only enough radiation is used to produce a diagnostic quality film. The development of digital radiography has made X-rays even safer, reducing radiation by another 80%. Digital X-rays are also an environmental benefit, eliminating hazardous wastes created by the film developing process. Furthermore, a healthy child with low risk of tooth decay will require X-rays about every two years, while a child with a high risk will require them more frequently. >> back to top Will thumbsucking or pacifier use harm my child's teeth? Only if it persists over a long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own between the ages of 2 and 4. However, if a child continues to have sucking habits when permanent teeth arrive, a mouth appliance may be recommended to prevent dental damage. >> back to top What can I do to protect my child's teeth during sporting events? Custom-fit soft plastic mouthguards can be fabricated to protect a child's teeth, lips, cheeks and gums from sport related injuries. >> back to top